The Gunners may well be on the look out for some attacking cover following Walcott's injury which rules him out for the rest of the season and the World Cup, but Wenger claims there have been no talks with Real Madrid, so far.

Arsenal have also been linked with Fulham veteran Dimitar Berbatov, as well as a big-money transfer for Atletico Madrid's Diego Costa.

Wenger, however, continues to stress all the headlines will not help the XI he sends out against Villa.

"I do not want to speak about any specific names. For us it is important to prepare well and to win the game on Monday night," said Wenger.

"The people who are in the newspapers do not help us to win the game on Monday night. It is the players who play here.

Arsenal have been linked with a move for Diego Costa [GETTY]

“It could be a loan as well yes, but we are not in talks with Real about anybody”

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger

"Nothing has changed because we are open to a possible solution and if something interesting turns up we will do it.

"It could be a loan as well yes, but we are not in talks with Real about anybody."